Windy Shao windysjf@hotmail.com ONLY about a two-hour ride from downtown Shenzhen, the ancient village of Lanmen in Boluo County, Huizhou, offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. This village, with most of the houses built in the 1940s and 1950s, has been rejuvenated by thoughtful reconstruction and become a tourist destination. Surrounded by green mountains and a clean flowing stream, the Lanmen Village enchants visitors with its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Spanning 178 acres, it is home to 79 acres of fertile land, six charming courtyard houses, and 21 cozy guest rooms. The blend of past and present is evident in the quaint homestays, waterside restaurants and bars, and a range of activities that cater to travelers’ tastes. Diverse activities Guests can enjoy a range of activities including learning intangible cultural heritage of bamboo weaving, visiting the countryside zoo, picking vegetables or just sitting in the tea houses and bars to enjoy the beautiful scene. I chose to learn the ancient art of bamboo weaving on the first day, an intricate and time-honored practice that requires concentration, precision, and a deep understanding of the material. Under the guidance of talented craftsmen, my 8-year-old daughter and I were just proud to see a finished bamboo product. A vast lawn under the mountain and near the stream is a paradise for kids during the summer vacation. They can jump into the stream to swim, fish, or play and enjoy the coolness of the water. They can run around the lawn, or get into large inflatable balls and roll around on the grass before enjoying a barbecue feast in the tents as the sunlight fades and the sky begins to be dotted with stars. The next day, we awoke to a traditional Cantonese breakfast amidst the fresh mountain air. Our day unfolded with farming experiences, where we delved into rural life and cultivated agricultural wisdom. I was surprised to find that my girl, who used to hate eating eggs, became an egg lover as they were mixed with leeks she had just harvested from the fields. It was my greatest achievement from this journey. Tianxin Lake After bidding farewell to Lanmen, we ventured a short distance to the Tianxin Lake, located under the Feiyun Summit on Luofu Mountain. The lake is naturally formed with springs at the bottom constantly gushing out water. Legend has it that when He Xiangu accidentally overturned the wine jar of Li Tieguai, the head of the Eight Immortals who came to greet her at the Immortal Bridge, the spilled wine formed the lake. The bus drove up the mountains for a few minutes before we could reach the tranquil reservoir perched amidst lush mountains. Looking at its mirrored waters from some angles, I somewhat felt it is a lake above some of the mountain ridges, which brought me a sense of being in the heavenly palace. In this idyllic haven, time slows, and nature’s splendor enchants. The ethereal beauty of the Tianxin Lake unfolds as mist dances and sunlight caresses its glistening surface, painting a picture-perfect paradise. Visitors will also find elegant black swans gracefully swimming in the lake, enhancing the beauty of the scenery. Scattered along the lakeshore are charming wooden cabins, providing a peaceful retreat to appreciate nature’s beauty, inviting individuals to listen to the whispers of nature and bask in the tranquility of the moment. Beyond its natural charm, the Tianxin Lake invites exploration, offering leisurely strolls along its serene shores, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the peacefulness of this hidden treasure. It serves as a focal point in one of the most scenic hiking routes on Luofu Mountain, where hikers can admire ancient temples and bridges along the path, along with breathtaking natural landscapes of mountains and waters. The surrounding area also boasts unique homestays, hotels, and opportunities to savor local delicacies and cuisine, providing visitors with a diverse and enriching travel experience. Travel tips When visiting Luofu Mountain, the route through the Lanmen Village and the Tianxin Lake on the opposite side of the mountain is a cost-saving one, as no entrance fees are required unlike the main entrance where tickets range from 27 to 54 yuan. | 